Experimental studies of degradable PLGA stent with basic fibroblast growth factor in myocardial revascularization

AIM To investigate the effects of degradable poly D, L-lactic/glycolic acid (PLGA) with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on promoting myocardial revascularization. METHODS Miniswines with acute myocardial infarction were randomly assigned to control group, blank PLGA stent group and PLGA stent with bFGF group. Six weeks postoperatively, quantitative analysis of new vessels was performed by Image Pro Plus software. The mass defect percent of myocardial perfusion was calculated by Emory Cardiac Toolbox software. LVEDd, LVEDs and FS% reflective of cardiac function were measured by echocardiology. RESULTS Six weeks postoperatively, both new vessels density and mass defect percent in PLGA stent with bFGF group showed significant difference compared with those in control group and blank PLGA stent group (P<0.01). FS% in PLGA stent with bFGF group was significantly enhanced compared with that in the other two groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION bFGF combined with degradable PLGA stent increases new vessel’s density, improves myocardial perfusion and enhances cardiac function.